Indonesia vs Monaco Flag
The flags of Indonesia and Monaco are strikingly similar, both featuring two horizontal stripes — red on top, white on the bottom. The design is so alike that the two countries have had diplomatic discussions about the resemblance. Despite looking almost identical, they have completely different origins spanning centuries.
Key Differences
- Indonesia's flag has a 2:3 height-to-width ratio, while Monaco's is 4:5 — making Monaco's flag noticeably more square.
- The shade of red differs slightly — Indonesia uses a brighter red, while Monaco's is slightly darker.
- Indonesia's flag dates to the 13th-century Majapahit Empire, while Monaco's derives from the heraldic colors of the Grimaldi family.
- Indonesia adopted its modern flag in 1945, while Monaco's was officially established in 1881.
Similarities
- Both feature two horizontal stripes: red on top, white on bottom.
- Both use red and white as their only colors.
- Neither contains any emblem, seal, or symbol.
- Both flags have centuries-old origins.
Why Do Indonesia and Monaco Flags Look So Similar?
The similarity is coincidental but rooted in common symbolism. Red and white are among the most frequently used colors in heraldry and vexillology worldwide. Indonesia's red and white come from the banner of the Majapahit Empire (1293–1527), one of Southeast Asia's greatest kingdoms. Monaco's colors derive from the coat of arms of the House of Grimaldi, who have ruled the principality since 1297. When Indonesia protested Monaco's flag at the United Nations, no changes were made since both flags have legitimate historical origins predating the modern nation-state system.
History of the Indonesian Flag
The Indonesian flag, known as 'Sang Saka Merah-Putih' (The Sacred Red and White), traces its origins to the Majapahit Empire in the 13th century. The red-and-white banner was used as a symbol of the empire's sovereignty. During the independence movement, the flag was adopted by nationalists, and it was officially hoisted on August 17, 1945, the day Indonesia declared independence from the Netherlands.
History of the Monaco Flag
Monaco's flag is based on the heraldic colors of the House of Grimaldi, the ruling family since 1297. The red and white design was officially adopted on April 4, 1881, under Prince Charles III. The colors come from the Grimaldi coat of arms, which features red and white diamond-shaped (lozengy) patterns.
Color Comparison
Indonesia Flag Colors
Monaco Flag Colors
Fun Facts
- Poland's flag is the reverse — white on top, red on the bottom — creating a trio of confusingly similar flags.
- Indonesia formally protested Monaco's flag at the United Nations, but the protest was unsuccessful since both flags have deep historical roots.
- The Indonesian flag is one of the oldest flag designs still in use, with origins dating to the 1200s.
- Monaco is one of the smallest countries in the world (2.02 km²) while Indonesia is one of the largest archipelago nations (1.9 million km²).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why do Indonesia and Monaco flags look alike?
The similarity is coincidental but rooted in common symbolism. Red and white are among the most frequently used colors in heraldry and vexillology worldwide. Indonesia's red and white come from the banner of the Majapahit Empire (1293–1527), one of Southeast Asia's greatest kingdoms. Monaco's colors derive from the coat of arms of the House of Grimaldi, who have ruled the principality since 1297. When Indonesia protested Monaco's flag at the United Nations, no changes were made since both flags have legitimate historical origins predating the modern nation-state system.
What is the difference between the Indonesia and Monaco flag?
- Indonesia's flag has a 2:3 height-to-width ratio, while Monaco's is 4:5 — making Monaco's flag noticeably more square.
- The shade of red differs slightly — Indonesia uses a brighter red, while Monaco's is slightly darker.
- Indonesia's flag dates to the 13th-century Majapahit Empire, while Monaco's derives from the heraldic colors of the Grimaldi family.
- Indonesia adopted its modern flag in 1945, while Monaco's was officially established in 1881.
Are the Indonesia and Monaco flags the same?
No, while they look very similar, the flags of Indonesia and Monaco have distinct differences. Indonesia's flag has a 2:3 height-to-width ratio, while Monaco's is 4:5 — making Monaco's flag noticeably more square.
Can You Tell Them Apart?
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